Among Newell's highlights was working Rendez-Vous '87, an international series of games between the Soviet Union and the NHL that replaced All-Star festivities for the 1986-87 season. He was also assigned the 1980 NHL All-Star Game at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit and worked the Stanley Cup Final three times (1981, 1984, 1987). He was president of the NHL Officials' Association from 1980-89.
"For 23 seasons from 1967-68 through 1989-90, encompassing 1,169 regular-season and 106 playoff games, Dave Newell was among the top referees in the NHL," NHL senior executive vice president of hockey operations Colin Campbell said. "He enjoyed a distinguished career that was highlighted by his selection to work in three Stanley Cup Final series (1981, 1984, 1987), the 1987 international series between the NHL and Soviet Union All-Stars, and the 1980 NHL All-Star Game."
Newell is the second longtime NHL referee to die in the past few weeks. Mick McGeough, a referee in the NHL for 21 seasons, died Nov. 23 at age 62.
"In addition to being among the elite in his profession, Dave's commitment to all aspects of officiating could be found in the fact that he served as President of the NHL Officials' Association for nine years," Campbell said. "Following his retirement, as an NHL Officiating Coach, Dave worked tirelessly for 15 years to mentor and develop young officials.
"A consummate professional who epitomized class, Dave's calm demeanor on the ice earned him the respect of players and coaches. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and many friends."
